Hampton has been with the Ashville Police Department the past 9 1/2 years. Mayor Derrick Mostella said Hampton has done a wonderful job.

“It is probably one of the easier decisions we’ve had to make on this council, to be perfectly honest with you,” Mostella said. “We had this guy waiting in the wings who has done literally everything asked of him. We could not ask for a better guy, and I am excited.”

Mostella said there were three candidates who interviewed for the position, and all three were phenomenal.

“All three guys were highly qualified,” Mostella said. “All three had great interviews, but Ed came in and just blew his interview out of the water. He solidified in our minds what we already thought, and that was that he was the man for the job moving forward. He has always made us proud, and I know he will continue to do so. He is the example we want our police department to be.”

Hampton said he looks forward to serving the city and its residents.

“I’m closing in on 10 years with this police department and I hope to make it another 10 years,” Hampton said. “I appreciate you having me and giving me this opportunity. I hope I never let you down.”